Reading With Your Kids Podcast

Celebrate the year's most inspiring moments with our Best of 2025 episode of Reading With Your Kids! We're revisiting five unforgettable conversations that reminded us of the power of stories to spark empathy, courage, and connection. Beloved author and comedian Anh Do shares heartwarming reflections on resilience and joy, showing families how humor and hope can light even the toughest paths. Music legend Ziggy Marley invites us to move, sing, and think together, exploring how rhythm, kindness, and curiosity can shape compassionate kids. Singer-songwriter Christina Perri opens up about creativity and healing, offering gentle encouragement for young artists (and their grown-ups) to express big feelings through music and words. We also revisit our conversation with Tamron Hall, whose commitment to truth, empathy, and empowerment encourages families to have brave, loving conversations at home. And Aria Mia Loberti—actor, scholar, and advocate—reminds us that every child's voice matters. Her insights on representation and accessibility offer a beautiful blueprint for a more inclusive world of books and media. Whether you're listening together in the car or winding down before bedtime, this episode is a joyful invitation to laugh, learn, and dream as a family. Thank you for being part of the RWYK community in 2025—your enthusiasm fuels every page we turn. Hit play, share with a friend, and let these powerful voices inspire your next great reading adventure!

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Get ready for holiday magic in this special episode of "Reading With Your Kids: The Christmas Staff!" Host Jed Doherty welcomes a talented team from CatholicTeenBooks.com—including authors Tony Kolenc, Corinna Turner, Andrea Jo Rogers, Carolyn Astfalk, and Leslea Wahl—for a merry, multi-author storytelling adventure you won't want to miss! Discover the heartwarming tale of Joe Grant, a foster child spending Christmas with the Carters, who stumbles on a mysterious wooden staff left at the church. Joined by new friend Annie, they set off on a quest across town, piecing together clues and meeting vibrant local characters like Old Man Grafton, Dougie the engraver, and retired Latin teacher Miss Flanders. Each chapter, written by a different author in the "exquisite corpse" style, unfolds more holiday surprises—including dramatic rescues, family reunions, and the true meaning of Christmas. With themes of family, hope, and new beginnings—plus a touch of Christmas mystery—this episode is a heartwarming celebration for all ages. Stay tuned for joyful music, behind-the-scenes peeks at the authors' creative process, and information on where to find inspiring teen fiction. Don't forget to check out CatholicTeenBooks.com for more holiday stories and book suggestions. Curl up with this festive podcast and feel the spirit of the season shine!

Join us for an inspiring episode of the Reading With Your Kids podcast, where host Jed Doherty welcomes two remarkable guests: Dr. Peter Cotton, the celebrated author of the "Fred the Snake" children's book series, and Donna VanLiere, bestselling author of "Looking for Christmas: The Search for Joy and Hope of the Nativity." This family-friendly episode is perfect for parents and kids eager to discover new children's books and traditions to bring them closer together during the holidays. Dr. Peter Cotton shares the delightful origins and adventures of Fred the Snake, introducing young readers to exciting journeys and life lessons, from crossing the road safely to exploring the Chinese Zodiac and The Great Race. Parents and kids alike will love learning about Fred's transition from bedtime story to beloved children's character, sparking imagination and curiosity. Next, Donna VanLiere discusses her uplifting Christmas story, encouraging families to embrace faith, patience, and kindness in today's fast-paced world. She offers heartfelt parenting tips, reflecting on how ordinary people play extraordinary roles in the Nativity. Discover how "Looking for Christmas" can help families find joy, hope, and deeper connections during the holiday season. This episode of Reading With Your Kids is packed with storytelling magic, holiday inspiration, and practical advice for nurturing faith and togetherness. Tune in for memorable stories, meaningful lessons, and resources for parents seeking the best in children's literature and podcasts!

In this episode of "Reading with Your Kids," host Jed Doherty sits down with Scott and Victoria Kyle, authors of the insightful book "The Other Birds and Bees: The Financial Facts of Life, Money Secrets No One Ever Taught You." Discover how to empower your children with essential financial literacy skills as the Kyles share practical advice for teaching kids about money and creating healthy family financial habits. From explaining the basics of saving and budgeting to fostering a mindset for long-term financial success, Scott and Victoria offer relatable stories, transparent conversations, and actionable tips for parents aiming to raise money-smart kids. Learn how to talk about college costs, develop good financial habits early, and find creative ways to make financial learning a natural part of family life. Later in the episode, we listen back to a conversation we had with master storyteller Donna Washington. Donna joined us to explore the traditions and meaning of Kwanzaa. Donna shares the roots of this cultural celebration, emphasizing the power of community, gratitude, and giving back. Her stories offer families accessible ways to incorporate Kwanzaa's values into everyday life, focusing on unity and empowerment. Tune in for a warm, friendly discussion rich with expert advice on financial literacy for kids, plus inspiration for celebrating meaningful traditions as a family.